It may seem impractical at first, but tiny pubs so small that patrons need to pack together in order to enjoy a good beer are novelty experience for many travellers. It’s not just in the UK where you find these quaint taverns, places which are almost emblematic of British culture; they are all over the globe, from Japan and New Zealand to our own South African shores.
1. The Workshop
Hout Bay, Cape Town, South Africa
View this post on Instagram
The seaside suburb of Hout Bay, Cape Town, claims to be home to the smallest pub in Africa. There is an indoor section and a sheltered outdoor area, and with a relaxed beach-shack vibe, this local hangout is a must-see. Inside, you’ll find all the quirks of a traditional pub, with an eccentric collection of knick-knacks and quirky decor on the walls.
Also Read: 20 Best Restaurants in Sea Point in 2023
2. The Signal Box
Cleethorpes, England
View this post on Instagram
The Signal box takes the prize for smallest pub in the world, measuring just 2.4 by 2.4 meters. Needless to say, it’s a tight squeeze, fitting only six patrons in at a time. The landlord, Alan Cowood, loves a good pint of Guinness and will happily drink one with you when you drop in for a visit. Right next to the town’s train station, this quintessential British miniature pub is simply charming.
Also Read: Opa! Greek Restaurants in Cape Town for a Mediterranean feast
3. Piano Bar
Tokyo, Japan
View this post on Instagram
This minute, quirky Tokyo spot is dimly-lit with red lighting, and its downstairs area features, of all things, an upside-down piano on display. It’s an upmarket cocktail bar, and has some of the best mixologists in town, so getting a reservation here is a challenge. If you do manage to, you’ll be able to enjoy the view of Tokyo midtown from the large windows as you sip your drink.
Also Read: 5 Restaurants along one of the world’s coolest streets, Kloof
4. Smallest Bar
Key West, Florida
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl8RwEtgNq1/
This 72-square-foot tropical spot in Florida is rumoured to have the funniest owner in town, who cracks jokes with his customers while serving drinks in his little bar. Be warned, it’s so little you may miss it as you walk past.
Also Read: Best Pizza in Cape Town: 10 Spots: From Classic to Creative
5. Dawson Lounge
Dublin, Ireland
View this post on Instagram
This wee Irish pub in the capital has a laid-back atmosphere and serves a darn good pint. It has plenty of history too – the license of the bar dates all the way back to 1850! Look out for the bright-red door on the street level and take the staircase down. This really is an authentically Irish experience and a perfect place to stop in when you’re out on the lash.
6. Mou Very
Dunedin, New Zealand
View this post on Instagram
A modern twist on the traditional, this industrial-style Kiwi establishment has a fresh take on the concept of a pub and is known for both its great coffee and beer. The name, Mou Very, is comprised of the French word for ‘soft’ and the Japanese word for ‘nothing’. Dine al fresco in the alleyway, and enjoy a drink inside. But be patient, the bar can only host 15 patrons at a time.
Image: Facebook
